Could a tongue swab replace sputum tests for TB?
NCT ID NCT05941052
First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
Every year, millions of people with tuberculosis (TB) go undiagnosed. This study tests new, faster diagnostic tools that use a simple tongue swab instead of the usual sputum sample. Researchers will enroll 1,350 adults with cough or TB risk factors to see how accurate these point-of-care tests are compared to standard lab cultures.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
tongue swab-based molecular assays
What this could lead to
If successful, this could lead to quick, easy, and affordable TB tests that can be used at clinics or community sites, helping diagnose more people early.
What could go wrong
This is a diagnostic accuracy study, not a treatment trial. The tests may not be sensitive or specific enough to replace current methods, and results may vary across different populations.
Disclaimer
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This is a summary of
the original study
.
Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Study contacts
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Contact
Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
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Contact
Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
Locations
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Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia
RECRUITINGLusaka, Zambia
Contact Email: •••••@•••••
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De La Salle Medical and Health Sciences Institute
RECRUITINGDasmariñas, Philippines
Contact Email: •••••@•••••
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Zankli Research Center, Bingham University
RECRUITINGAbuja, Nigeria
Contact Email: •••••@•••••